With India’s hopes of reaching the World Test Championship (WTC) final dashed after the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series defeat, discussions about Test cricket’s future will now likely shift toward the roles of two senior players—Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. Ahead of the upcoming Champions Trophy, questions surrounding their place in the Test setup are gaining traction.
Rohit, the Indian skipper, addressed speculation about his future in the format following his decision to sit out the Sydney Test, which many interpreted as a possible retirement hint. Speaking to Star Sports on Day 2 of the Test, he clarified, “I am not going anywhere.” However, his statement reportedly made little impact within the BCCI.
The Special General Meeting (SGM) of the BCCI, set for Sunday, will mark Devajit Saikia’s official appointment as the board secretary. Among the topics expected to be discussed is Rohit’s Test career, particularly after his underwhelming performance in Australia.
The 37-year-old managed only 31 runs across five innings on the tour, averaging a dismal 6.2—his worst-ever as a touring captain in Australia. This compounded his struggles since September, where he has scored just 164 runs in eight Tests, averaging slightly over 10, with only one half-century to his name.
Rohit’s decision to withdraw from the Sydney Test sparked speculation that he might have played his last match in the format. According to the *Hindustan Times*, BCCI officials believe Rohit’s remark about retirement carries little weight. As Saikia, team management, and chief selector Ajit Agarkar prepare for a series review, the captain’s future remains uncertain.
“Rohit was waiting to see if India could find an escape route to the WTC final,” a BCCI official told the outlet on condition of anonymity. “Now, it’s really up to him whether to continue to fight for a spot. But the decision will be down to Ajit Agarkar and his selection committee.”
Before stepping aside in Sydney, Rohit had shuffled the batting order in an attempt to stabilize the team. Promoting himself to the opening position in Melbourne, he pushed KL Rahul to No. 3, which sidelined Shubman Gill. However, his twin failures in the Boxing Day Test led to the decision to withdraw and make room for in-form batters.
The question of Rohit’s place in the Test squad now hangs in the balance, with the selection committee expected to play a pivotal role in determining his fate.
